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what is this "Acme Transformer" what does it do and what is it used for?

I have two of those (but with smaller kVA and different turns ratio) hanging on the wall of my shop in an open delta arrangement to provide 3-phase 575-V power to one of my mills. Transformers like that are handy when you need them, but also hard to sell due to the fact that buyers usually need specific turns ratios and capacities. Shipping cost is very often a deal-breaker.
 
was hoping this would turn 1 phase in to 3 phase. (but the way the plate was reading it looked to be going the other way.)
but it looks like it was made to turn 3 phase 480 Voltage in to 3 phase 208 Voltage. (that's why it's called a Transformer)

after reading a little it's seems like you can use it both ways. the output voltage
will be lower than is indicated if you run it backwards.

https://www.galco.com/techdoc/acme/t-2a-53308-1s_faq.pdf
now this is not the exact one but close and in the FAQ

7. Can Acme Transformers be reverse connected?
ACME dry-type distribution transformers can be reverse
connected without a loss of kVA rating, but there are
certain limitations. Transformers rated 1 kVA and larger
single phase, 3 kVA and larger three phase can be reverse
connected without any adverse effects or loss in kVA
capacity. The reason for this limitation in kVA size is, the
turns ratio is the same as the voltage ratio. Example: A
transformer with a 480 volt input, 240 volt output— can
have the output connected to a 240 volt source and thereby
become the primary or input to the transformer, then the
original 480 volt primary winding will become the output
or 480 volt secondary. On transformers rated below 1 kVA
single phase, there is a turns ratio compensation on the
low voltage winding. This means the low voltage winding
has a greater voltage than the nameplate voltage indicates
at no load. For example, a small single phase transformer
having a nameplate voltage of 480 volts primary and 240
volts secondary, would actually have a no load voltage
of approximately 250 volts, and a full load voltage of 240
volts. If the 240 volt winding were connected to a 240 volt
source, then the output voltage would consequently be
approximately 460 volts at no load and approximately
442 volts at full load. As the kVA becomes smaller, the
compensation is greater— resulting in lower output voltages.
When one attempts to use these transformers in reverse, the
transformer will not be harmed; however, the output voltage
will be lower than is indicated by the nameplate.

but i see here that it also tells me that

9. Can Transformers develop Three Phase power
from a Single Phase source? No. Phase converters or
phase shifting devices such as reactors and capacitors are
required to convert single phase power to three phase.
 
9. Can Transformers develop Three Phase power
from a Single Phase source? No. Phase converters or
phase shifting devices such as reactors and capacitors are
required to convert single phase power to three phase

Just the well known facts
 
There is a way to use a transformer as a phase converter, how well it works is still being debated, opinions range from stupendusly fantastic, to it does not work at all. If you care to try it, look up the book "Unique 3 phase".

And although a transformer converter could be called a static converter, it is not what is marketed as a static converter.
 
an old machinist has some cool stuff trying to work out a deal with him for a lathe and saw some of the stuff he has. he is not able to get up and around after a heart attack.
 








 
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